Soft Vanilla Bean Tea Cupcakes

Name: Soft Vanilla Bean Tea Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Highlighted under: Oven Food

I absolutely love baking these Soft Vanilla Bean Tea Cupcakes. The delicate balance of flavors created by the real vanilla beans is simply mesmerizing. Each bite is moist and soft, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or just indulging yourself, these cupcakes deliver a delightful experience. The slight hint of vanilla elevates them beyond the ordinary, and once you try them, I guarantee you’ll be reaching for a second!

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-02-16T09:24:36.210Z

When I first baked these cupcakes, I was amazed at how the vanilla beans transformed the entire flavor profile. The little specks of vanilla throughout each cupcake not only look beautiful but create a rich, aromatic experience. I used a high-quality vanilla extract along with the beans for an extra boost, and the combination truly elevated the taste.

During my baking experiments, I discovered that letting the cupcakes rest for a few minutes after baking helped to lock in their moisture. This small detail made a huge difference, resulting in the softest cupcakes. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
Delicate vanilla flavor that's comforting and inviting
Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfectly sweet without being overwhelming

Understanding Vanilla Beans

Using real vanilla bean paste in these cupcakes elevates the flavor significantly compared to imitation vanilla. The tiny black specks from the vanilla beans not only enhance the aesthetic but also provide an intense, authentic vanilla aroma that permeates every bite. If you can't find vanilla bean paste, you can substitute it with pure vanilla extract, but you'll lose some of that rich depth of flavor.

Vanilla beans contain complex flavor compounds that interact beautifully with sugar, creating a warmth and familiarity that's hard to replicate. When you bake with them, their flavor blooms wonderfully, resulting in a cupcake that's both comforting and fancy. Be sure to mix the paste thoroughly with your wet ingredients to evenly distribute the vanilla flavor throughout.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To ensure your cupcakes are light and fluffy, avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the dry and wet ingredients. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to dense cupcakes instead of the desired airy texture. Mix until just combined, and you'll be rewarded with a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Another key to fluffy cupcakes is room temperature ingredients. Using butter, eggs, and milk that are at room temperature allows for better emulsification, which helps trap air during creaming and contributes to that delightful lightness. If you're short on time, you can place cold eggs in warm water for a few minutes to bring them to the right temperature.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to start baking your delightful cupcakes:

Cupcake Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
1/2 teaspoon salt

Frosting Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons heavy cream

Now that you have your ingredients, you're ready to bake some delicious cupcakes!

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect cupcakes:

Prepare the Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Add in the milk, vanilla bean paste, and mix until incorporated. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Line a cupcake pan with paper liners. Fill each liner about 2/3 full with the batter. Bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Frost and Serve

Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, frost with the vanilla buttercream. Decorate as desired and serve these delightful treats at your next gathering!

Enjoy your delicious soft vanilla bean tea cupcakes!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add some edible glitter or sprinkles on top of your frosting for a festive look. You can also experiment with different flavored extracts for a unique twist!

Storage Tips

These Soft Vanilla Bean Tea Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration may dry them out slightly, so let them come to room temperature before enjoying to restore some of that softness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes. After they have cooled completely, wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and frost with your delicious vanilla buttercream.

Serving Suggestions

These cupcakes are delightful on their own, but consider pairing them with a light afternoon tea or coffee for a charming treat. A sprinkle of edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar can enhance their presentation for a special occasion or gathering.

Additionally, these cupcakes can be customized with a variety of toppings. Try adding a layer of fruit preserves beneath the buttercream for a burst of flavor or top with fresh berries for a pop of color and sweetness that balances the richness of the vanilla.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean paste?

Yes, you can use vanilla extract; however, using vanilla bean paste provides a richer flavor and beautiful speckles.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes without frosting for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

→ What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?

You can substitute unsweetened applesauce or a dairy-free butter alternative to keep it vegan.